THE TRANSFIGURATION OF CHRIST

THE TRANSFIGURATION OF CHRIST (AUGUST 6 TH Y A). The word transfiguration means a change in form or physical appearance. All of us wish to appear in our best and to look attractive especially when we are going to church, attending an important event or occasion like a party. It is very unlikely to see people putting on their best attire while just at home. We are more concerned with the way we appear in public view than with our private appearance. So, it is that we usually leave ourselves unkept and put on our casual wears at home until when it is time for outing. Then, we shower, apply cosmetics and put on very nice or fashionable clothes. A similar thing is at the background of today s liturgical celebration of the transfiguration of Christ. At the beginning of his public ministry, Jesus divine sonship was revealed as the voice from heaven affirmed: this is my beloved son with whom lam well pleased. The same manifestation of his divine glory occurred in a more dramatic way on the mountain of transfiguration. In today s Gospel, Mt 17:1-9, Jesus made his divine glory manifest to Peter, James and John to strengthen their faith and give them spiritual muscles to overcome the shock of his impending death on the cross. Thus, he allowed them to have a foretaste of the future glory that would be theirs after facing the daunting trials of persecution, the toils and labors of spreading the Gospel amidst hardships on account of his name. In this context, the mysterious episode of the transfiguration takes place on a high mountain, before three witnesses chosen by him: Peter, James and John. Jesus face and clothes become dazzlingly with light, Moses and Elijah appear, speaking of his departure, which he was to accomplish at Jerusalem. A cloud covers him and a voice from heaven says: This is my son, my chosen; listen to him. The transfiguration indicates that Jesus is the fulfillment of the teaching of the Torah in the person of Moses, and the prophets represented by Elijah. The glory that shone in Jesus is also destined to be the future glory for all those who believing in him, endure all kinds of suffering and pains yet remain obedient to God s will. It is only when we remain steadfast to the very end that we can discover the purpose of our being as God s adopted children. All of us have a sheer experience of ups and downs in our daily lives. There are times when we feel on top of the world and at the same time, moments when we feel completely down casted. Such experiences are little moments of transfiguration and disfiguration. In all these challenges, one thing is certain; God is with us as a loving and caring father who directs His dearly beloved children along the path of eternal life in His heavenly glory. Therefore, whenever we are confronted with the uncertainties of life, let us not falter but do what Jesus did. He took three disciples with him to the mountain top and immersed himself in an intense prayer, then some thing spectacular happened and it became a source of their hope alive. There was a transfiguration, a change in out look. What looked like an insurmountable problem before now became a sigh of hope that the disciples too would share in His future glorification. Moses the lawgiver and Elijah one of the greatest of the prophets appeared and handed over to Jesus. They also confirmed that Jesus saving mission was deigned to be accomplish by means of his death on the cross before glorification. The Holy Spirit gave Jesus the strength he needed to act in accordance with God s will. And the Father spoke in the voice from heaven and said: this is my son, my chosen, listen to him. As it were, there are many different voices telling us to follow the way of escapism through alcoholism, drugs, discouragement, disillusionment, violence, despair and even suicide when compressed by too many problems. We must not listen to them. We are enjoined to listen only to Jesus the beloved son of God who alone has wrought our definitive salvation. Therefore, we need to set aside a quiet time to be alone with Jesus either in the blessed sacrament of the altar and/ or in the midst of God s people and listen to Him speak to us through the minister of His word and sacraments, and in the silence of our hearts telling us; this is the right thing, do it, and this not right, don t do it. This is the way that leads to salvation, follow it. Don t follow the path that will ruin your life. Jesus has shown us how to embrace the path of suffering with perseverance and hope having the assurance of faith that in the end our sufferings, hardships and problems are short lived. They will soon be over and the end result shall be glorification for those who will like him seek nothing else than to do God s will. A peak experience of transfiguration comes when our prayers are answered. The shadows of decay give way to the brighter light of hope when our sorrows will be changed into joy, our toils and labors, problems and anxieties, sickness and pain, trials and temptations become stepping stones for our spiritual growth and maturity. Prayer changes things. It imbues our hearts with the transforming power of God s grace. It makes us strong against temptation and enables us to leave behind the garbage of our past and turn a new leaf as we journey to heaven where we hope to experience the beatific vision. In Need of a Bus Driver: Apply at St. Rose of Lima Parish Office Will need to go thru compliance as soon as possible. We start classes on August 21,2017 St. Rose of Lima owns 3 plots of Land for Sale. If interested in purchasing,please contact the Parish office at 428-4920 for more information. 1..16 acre corner lot: Located on W Frying Pan Drive in Safford, AZ, in Thunderbird Valley #2 subdivision, Lot #492 (south of Roper Lake); Assessor value $4,450 2..23 acre lot: Located on E Doggie Drive in Safford, AZ, in Thunderbird Valley subdivision, Lot #169 (south of Roper Lake); Assessor value $5,232 3. 1.0 acre lot: Located on W Melanie Street in Pima, AZ, in White Fence Farms subdivision, Lot #116 (east of Cluff Ranch Road) Assessor value $5,424

ST. ROSE OF LIMA NOTICES ST. ROSE OF LIMA WEEKLY ACTIVITIES Second Collections: Building Fund: August 5&6 2017 St. Vincent de Paul: August 19& 20th,2017 Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction is every Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. A compliance representative will be at St. Rose of Lima from 1:30pm to 2:30 pm 2nd Thursday of the month. All New Volunteers are required to begin the clearance process for 2016-2017. Messengers of Mary: Prays the Holy Rosary Monday - Friday at 7:30 a.m. before Mass. The officers are Juanita Boehler, 348-8288, Grace Hemmerling, 623-853- 5746,Lucy Kin 428-1491, & Ana Berta Rodriguez 428-2317. You can call any officer for prayers or Consecration to Jesus through Mary. We gather together for spiritual talks every other Thursday and special occasions. We welcome all newcomers. Youth Choir: Junior and High School meet at 5pm to 6pm on Wednesday. Spanish Choir Practice meets every Thursday at 6:00 pm in the church. Pre Cana: Will be August 26 th from 8:45 to 6:00 pm in St Matthew s room. You may register in the Parish Office. Cost is $50 Per couple. Deadline to register is August 21, 2017 BOOKS DONATIONS NEEDED: Saint Rose of Lima is asking for donations of Catholic Books for the Parish Library the church is organizing. Fiction, non fiction, and children's books are all needed. Donations can be dropped off in the Saint Rose of Lima Parish Office. Sat. 6pm Birthday Blessing for Abe O Villalba Sun. 7am +Connie Bailon Health & Well-being of the Mary K. 10:00am Howell Family 11:30am 6pm +Omar & +Carmen Rivera Mon 8am Papal Intentions Saint Rose of Lima Parishioners Tues 8am Birthday Blessing for Angel Barbosa Health & Well-being of Carmen Wed 8am Burnham Thurs Fri 8am 8am Sat 6pm +George Couture Sun Mass Intentions for Aug. 5 Aug. 13th,2017 7am 10am 11:30am Health & Well-being of Elenor Matt Health & Well-being of David Winsor +Pablo & Bootsie Trujillo & +LaTanya Stidum Health & Well-being of Carlotta Soto +Erlinda Waller 6 pm +Rick Smith St. Rose of Lima Weekend Collections July 29th-30th, 2017 Offertory $ 3,936.17 Building Fund $ 10.00 St. Vincent de Paul $ 412.00 Thank you for your support, Fr. Robert Rodriguez CHURCH HISTORY STUDY The Early Church Discuss the First 500 years of the Church. Begins on Wednesday September 6, 2017, It will Last for 10 weeks. Interested parties please contact the Parish office. The workbook cost is $25. The time will be at 8:45am 10:00 am. Instructor will be Bob Mooney REQUIREMENTS: Baptisms The parents of the child to be baptized must submit a copy of the baby's birth certificate. Parents and godparents need to attend the parish baptismal class. Classes are given on the second Saturday of the month from 10:00 a.m. until noon. Please call the office to sign up for the next scheduled class. All requirements for the Diocese of Tucson and Saint Rose of Lima will be given to the parents at this time. Baptisms are performed the first and third Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. Our office staff is limited, therefore, sponsors and godparents proof of sacraments, documents and payment must be submitted at least one month before the baptism. When choosing godparents, if they are married, they must be married through the Catholic church, if single you must not be living with a partner. Donation is $20.00. Quinceañera The candidate and her parents must contact the office at least one (1) year or more before the date requested. Quinceañera are not performed during Holy Days. Requirements: active within the parish, youth group, Religious Education, Mass attendance, etc. or Six(6) sets of meetings and volunteer ministries given by Fr. Robert. Cost is $250.00. There is a non-refundable deposit of $100.00 to hold the date. Balance to the church must be received in the office one week before the ceremony. Weddings The couple must contact office at least 6 months prior to the desired wedding date. An appointment will be made for the couple. At that time it will be determined if the date desired is available, and all requirements for the Diocese of Tucson and Saint Rose of Lima will be given to the couple. Donation is $150.00.There is a non-refundable deposit of $50.00 to hold the date. Balance to the church must be received in the office one week before the ceremony.

ST. ROSE OF LIMA NOTICES RE Office: Is open Monday-Friday from 8am to 12noon. (928)348-4785. Registration will be on going in RE office/ the Parish Office. If anyone is interested in teaching or helping with the Religious Education Program for this year 2017-2018. Please call the office at 348-4785, or 428-0149 to get your compliance done. A compliance representative will be at St. Rose of Lima from 1:30 pm to 2:30pm every 2nd Thursday of the month. Religious Classes will begin on August 21st 2017. Registration Fees: $25 for First Child per immediate family $20 for Second Child per immediate family $15 for Third Child per immediate family $10 for Fourth Child per immediate family $ 5 for Fifth Child per immediate family Teachers Needed: 1-Kindergarten 2-1st grade 2-2nd grade 2-3rdgrade (T) Teacher Aides Office Aides RCIA Classes: Registration Sept.10, 2017. $25. Are on Sunday start with Mass at 6pm is considerate as part of class. class starts at 7pm to 8pm St. Rose of Lima Compliance: Our Common Commitment We share a common commitment, to protect our children and vulnerable adults. We are committed to conduct our lives in a manner that is consistent with our faith. We are committed to work in such a way that others might see and experience the integrity and compassion that we profess. Important: All ministry leaders are responsible to ensure that all their volunteers are in compliance with the Tucson Diocese Guidelines Cursillo English: Men's Sept 7-10 Women's Sept 14-17. At Our Lady of Fatima 1950 Irvington Pl, Tucson, AZ 85746. You can get application at the ST. Rose of Lima Parish Office or website - https:// diocesetucson.org/youth-adult-family/movements/ St Rose of Lima High School Youth Group: Kick Off Theme "Seeking the light of Christ in the Darkness" Saturday, August 12, 2017 7am-8:30pm In the Volunteer Hall Join us for praise/worship/make a new friend/glow in the dark fun games with a maze/glow in the dark face/body paints... Bring a friend Thank you!!! Teachers, Aides, Office Aides: There will be RE meeting & Training on Wednesday August 9th, 2017, At 6pm in St. Matthew. It will be potluck. Will gather together so that we can get your input how to make it a better year and meet everyone and help one another threw the year. Jr. High Youth Group (6th-8th grade) RE will start Sunday, August 13 We encourage you to attend Mass with your Family at 11:30am Jr. High Youth Group/RE gather every Sunday from 12:30-2pm In St. Matthews Room CONFIRMATION CLASSES: Are 9th thru 12 grade on Sunday. Confirmation I attend from 4:45pm to 7pm. Confirmation II attend from 6pm to 8:15pm. Both Confirmation classes Mass is considerate as part of class. ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL WITH YOUR HELP, WE WORK WONDERS St Rose of Lima s goal is 42,000.00 We have Pledged $ 37,900.00. We are at 90%

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD August 6, 2017 Second Collections: Roof Fund: 8-6-17 St. Vincent de Paul: 8-20-17 Building Fund: 8-27-17 Along with the Build Fund we have the Roof Fund. If you would please specify which Fund you are donating too. OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE OFFICE HOURS: 9:30AM 3:00PM. OLG Gift Shop is open on week days at 9:30-3:00pm. Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction is every Friday from 9:30-10:30 AM Pray the rosary Monday-Friday at 8:30 before Mass. If anyone is interested in teaching or helping with the Religious Education Program for next year, 2017-2018. Please call the office at 428-0149. Volunteers are needed to help clean the church, please call OLG office at 428-0149. Only candles bought from OLG will be allowed in the church. Thank you for your cooperation. Our Lady of Guadalupe Church now has a keyboard piano/organ. If anyone is interested in playing the organ, please call OLG, so we may place it in the Church for your use. ATTENTION: DUE TO MISCHIEVOUS BEHAVIOR IN THE SOLOMON AREA, OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH WILL BE LOCKED DAILY AT 3:00 P.M. UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Compliance Our Common Commitment: We share a common commitment, to protect our children and vulnerable adults. We are committed to conduct our lives in a manner that Is consistent with our faith. We are committed to work in such a way that others might see and experience the integrity and compassion that we profess. Important: All ministry leaders are responsible to ensure that all their volunteers are in compliance with the Tucson Diocese Guidelines. A compliance representative will be at St. Rose of Lima from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm every 2 nd Thursday of each month. ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL WITH YOUR HELP, WE WORK WONDERS Our Lady of Guadalupe goal is $4,200.00 We have met our pledge. We are at 112% Mass Intentions for Aug. 06,-13th, 2017 Sun 8:30am +Felicitas & Manuela De Alva Fri 9:00am +Souls in Purgatory Sun 8:30am +Ramon & +LaLa Montoya Weekend Collections July 30th, 2017 Offertory $ 468.00 Roof Fund donations $ 200.00 RELIGIOUS EDUCATION GOSPEL REFLECTION: Like the Apostles (Peter, James, and John), may the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord give us the grace to strengthen our faith and help us to notice Jesus in the ordinary things of life. Mixed Choir Practice (children & adults) Choir practice is held every Tuesday at 4:30 in the church. No experience necessary. Please join us. All are welcome! Confirmation If you are in need of the sacrament of Confirmation, please call the office at 928-428 -0149 and pre-register. Confirmation class will not be offered at Our Lady of Guadalupe unless there are at least 10 students enrolled. RE Registration Registration for Religious Education is TODAY after Mass in the parish hall. Religious Education begins on Monday, August 21, and is available for all children K-8 th grade. Upcoming Events: August 6 RE Registration after Mass August 13 RE Registration after Mass August 20 RE Teacher Meeting after Mass August 21 First day of RE class from 4-5:30 pm Up Coming Event: A yard and Burrito Sale is planned for August 25th & Saturday August 26, 2017. Burritos sold only on Friday. Money Donations for the preparation of burritos are appreciated and Items that are in good condition for the yard sale can be brought in on weekdays 9:30 AM 3:00 PM. Additional list of donations needed are as follow: Sodas Bottled water Baked Goods All Proceeds from this fundraiser will go towards the new roof for Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

LOS JILB ERTOS ORTEGA S SHOES MEXICAN FOOD Mt. Graham Shopping Center Richard & Theresa Ortega Elodia Valerie 928.428.0636 215 E US Hwy 70 Safford AZ 928.428.4887 SECULAR FRANCISCAN S t. Elizabeth of Hungary Fraternity Meets 2nd Saturdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At Our Lady of Guadalupe Church David Esquivel, Minister 928.865.2887 VALLEY FURNITURE Michael R Andazola Sr Council Member 717 W M ain St, Safford, AZ Kachina Hot Springs Mineral Spa KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 1155 W Cactus Rd Safford, AZ 928.428.7212 Richard Ortega, Grand Knight 928.428.0636 Kachinamineralsprings.com M eets 1st Wednesdays at 7 p.m. 350 E. Armory Road Safford, AZ 928.348.9340 Walneck s Safford Sewing Center Jeff & Virginia Walneck Parishioners Hwy 70 & 3rd Ave 928.428.0494 CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAS Court S t. Rose of Lima #2398 Helen Romero, Regent 928.965.6604 M eets 3rd Wednesdays at 7 p.m. At St. Rose of Lima In St. M atthew s room Greens Furniture Davi d Montez the Furniture King 520 W. 5 th St Safford, Az 428.5900 THRIFTEE FOOD & DR UG Groceries-General M erchandise Bakery-Deli Pharmacy-Florist 755 S CENTRAL AVE SAFFORD, AZ 85546 PHONE: 928.428.1844 928.428.1740 Michelle A. Wilson Our Lady of Guadalupe Agent Gift Shop Solomon, AZ 610 W. Main St Safford, AZ 85546 928.428.1570 farmersagent@vtc.net Open Monday Friday 9:30 a.m. 3:00 p.m. SONORA'S HOT DOGS St. Rose of Lima Gift Shop LOCATED AT: *Full day P reschool *Over 25 years of classroom e xperience * AZ State Licensed *Low Student/Teacher ratio Owner: Loretta Desaulniers 928-651-8939 2919 W. HWY 70 THATCHER, AZ CURSILLO LEADERSHIP For more information, contact St. Rose of Lima Parish Office 928.428.4920 Bulletin Ads $150/ Year In the Parish Office 415 E US Hwy 70, Safford, AZ Sonora's Hot Dogs $3.50 Mexican's Drin ks $2.50 Now Serving Breakfast @ 11AM 928.428.7148 Fifth Avenue Florist 707 S. 6th Ave Safford, AZ 928.428.1033 PEPS I-COLA BOTTLING COMPANY OF SAFFORD 516 S. 5th Avenue, Safford 928.428.2491 Mon Fri 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. 12 p.m. Open Monday Friday 8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m.